Mansfield man Mr Derek Ward (67), who has had two hip replacements, ran the London Marathon for the third successive year.

Mr Ward, who finished in 6hrs 22mins despite the hot weather, raised more than £1,000 for the befriending service at local charity Jigsaw Support Scheme, which helps local elderly people.

He said: “It was slower than last year because of the heat. I was grateful to get round. The marathon is a challenge at any time of life but I’m approaching 70 and have had two hip replacements, so I’m pretty proud of myself.”

Sixty Jigsaw volunteers visit 80 housebound over 60s every week to reduce loneliness and social isolation. For many, the visit from their Jigsaw volunteer is the only proper conversation they have in the week.

Mr Ward said: “Loneliness is so painful and if you’re housebound because of age, frailty or illness you simply can’t get out to socialise.

“My mobility was so bad at one point, I was faced with being housebound. So Jigsaw is not only a local charity helping local people, it’s a cause which is really close to my heart.

“What the befriending services do is to bring that vital human contact into the home, improving health outcomes and making the service users feel so much better.”

Fundraiser Ginny Cullen said: “We’re so grateful for what Derek has done for Jigsaw. Not only has he shown what challenges older people can overcome, he’s raised over a £1,000 to help fund our befriending services.

“Such a large amount will make a huge difference. The money raised will go towards the vital training and support for volunteers to enable Jigsaw to deliver a quality service.”

If you have an hour a week to spare and would like to make a difference to lonely social isolated over 60s living in Mansfield and Ashfield, or if you’d like to make a referral, contact Cate Bones on 01623 662200 or go to www.jigsawmansfield.org.uk

To make a donation go to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/DerekWard